Robert De Niro Cracks Age Joke in Front of Biden While Honoring Billy Crystal at Kennedy Center Honors

Robert De Niro poked fun at Billy Crystal's age with a light-hearted quip referencing President Joe Biden while saluting Crystal at the 46th annual Kennedy Center Honors on Dec. 3.

"You’re only 75," De Niro told the actor and comedian, who was one of the honorees of the night. The actor, 80, continued, "That means you’re just about six years away from being the perfect age to be elected president."

Biden seemingly appreciated the joke and wagged his finger at De Niro, per The Guardian.

Along with Crystal, other honorees were Queen Latifah, Bee Gees' Barry Gibb, Dionne Warwick and opera singer Renèe Fleming.

Biden, now 81, became the oldest person elected president in US history when he was sworn in at the age of 78 in 2021. He has subsequently faced criticism over his age and has addressed the scrutiny several times, including during a speech in September when he made light about concerns.

"I tell you what, someone said, that Biden he getting old man. I tell you what. Guess what? Guess what? The only thing that comes with age is a little bit of wisdom," Biden said. "I've been doing this longer than anybody. And guess what? I'm going to continue to do it with your help."

 A Wall Street Journal poll released at the time found over 70% of respondents felt Biden is too old to seek office again.

In contrast, 47% believe Donald Trump is too old to seek the presidency again. The 2024 GOP hopeful and former president is just three years younger than Biden at 77.